DRIVERS are likely to face delays in Hexham from next month when roadworks begin.
A one-way system will be introduced on the B6305 Hencotes from July 25 until September 2, during the school summer holidays, while footway repair and drainage works are carried out.
A new crossing point will also be installed.
Traffic will be required to travel in a westerly direction from its junction with Beaumont Street heading west.
Hencotes will also be fully closed from August 30 to September 2 between the hours of 5pm and midnight.
John Robson, who owns Just Men Hair Design on Hencotes, said: "I'm concerned about it - business isn't good in Hexham without making it one-way for however many months it's going to be.
"I don't know why they're re-laying the pavements. The pavements aren't worse than anywhere else in the town."
He added: "I don't think a lot of people are aware of it. They never sent me a notification that they were going to do it.
"You would think it would be common courtesy to tell the residents on the road to let them know."
Lucy Norton-Ellison, Senior Chiropractic Assistant at Aligned Chiropractic, also on Hencotes, said: "To be honest we don't know that much about it. We haven't had any information that I'm aware of as to how it will affect us.
"I know that with the one-way, as long as people can get in and out of our car park we should be ok, but we're certainly going to have to let every practice member know that there will be delays. They're going to have to give themselves extra time.
"It will affect us definitely."
A spokesman for Northumberland County Council said: “The one-way system is for the installation of a traffic safety scheme and the later three-day closure is for surfacing works.
“Our Highways Team have been out and spoken to local residents and business to advise them of the works.
"We intend to inform all affected residents and businesses via letter in the coming days, as well as placing advance warning signs on the roads.
“As always we will be working to minimise disruption and would thank people in advance for their understanding while these improvements take place.
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